Joel Scott Allen

Joel Scott Allen, 61, of Dacula, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly on October 4, 2025. Born on March 10, 1964, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joel moved to the Atlanta area as a child, where he would later build a life rooted in love, adventure, and community. Joel spent the majority of his professional career in the IT field and for the past 18 years, Joel and his beloved wife, Diana, made their home in Gwinnett County.
A man who found joy in nature and the simple pleasures of life, Joel was an avid hiker who loved the outdoors. Whether cruising through the countryside in his sports car or motorcycle, strumming his guitar, enjoying his love of music, or spending quiet time reading and writing, Joel embraced each day with curiosity and a positive outlook. Though he found his greatest peace in the outdoors, he also loved being surrounded by family, friends, and his deeply loved dogs - Sami, Murphy, and Bruce.
Joel was adopted and lovingly raised by the late Alvin Allen and Carolyn Whitt Allen. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Jill Allen. He is survived by his devoted wife, Diana Allen of Dacula, Georgia; his biological father, Raymond Bazell of California; brother Glenn (Shelly) Bogert of Pennsylvania; sister Sylvia (Jeff) Lamb of Virginia; father-in-law Barton Birch of Suwanee, Georgia; sister- and brother-in-law Theresa and Edward Baradine of Cumming, Georgia; nephews Michael (Megan) Baradine of Evans, Georgia, and Matthew Baradine of Brookhaven, Georgia; niece Jennifer (Scott) Smith of Woodstock, Georgia; as well as many dear friends whose lives he touched.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Crowell Brothers Funeral Home, 201 Morningside Drive, Buford, Georgia. The family will receive guests from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00p.m. prior to the service. Immediately following the service, the family would like to invite you to a reception in Joel's honor at the American Legion Post 127, located at 6196 Suwanee Dam Road, Sugar Hill, Georgia.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joel's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
On-line condolences may be expressed at www.crowellbrothers.com. Arrangements entrusted to Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 201 Morningside Dr., Buford, GA 30518. 770-945-9999.